hand-book of the history of the Spanish and French schools of painting

Where did the great Spanish and French masters learn to see, and how did their canvases come to define European taste? These paintings changed Europe forever. In this authoritative art history handbook, Sir Edmund Head traces the rise of the Spanish and French schools of painting, setting them within the broader history of western painting and the evolution of European painting schools. Clear, concise chapters move from early religious works to courtly splendour and the emergence of classic old masters art, making this an accessible european art history book for curious readers as well as a dependable painting history reference. First published in the nineteenth century, Head's study captures how his contemporaries understood the history of Spanish painting and the parallel history of French painting at a time when both traditions were reshaping museums and taste across Europe. Out of print for decades and now republished by Alpha Editions. Restored for today's and future generations. More than a reprint - a collector's item and a cultural treasure. As an art history students guide and a thoughtful reference for art collectors, it offers period insight, precise observation and a compact overview of major movements and masters in the spanish and french schools. Ideal for readers of nineteenth century art history and for anyone seeking a portable, enduring companion to the history of western painting.